He’s about to become a father for the first time but work commitments mean Liam Payne has been forced to left pregnant girlfriend Cheryl at home while he flies back to Los Angeles.

A skinnier looking Liam was pictured at arriving at LAX on Wednesday to continue work on his hugely anticipated debut solo album.

Flashing a smile at the waiting photographers, the One Direction boybander made a low key arrival as he strolled through the terminal in black skinny jeans and a beige jacket.

Liam leaves Cheryl at home as he returns to Los Angeles (Image: Splash News)

Liam's been working on his solo album in the US (Image: Splash News)

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He was clutching his trusty mobile phone in one hand, no doubt ready to text Cheryl and let her know he’s landed safely.

Liam's been quietly working on his solo album over in Los Angeles in recent months, leaving One Direction fans eager to hear his debut track.

He announced his US record deal in October last year, and it was a blow for Simon Cowell as the star moved away from his record label.

Liam and Cheryl pictured in May last year (Image: Getty)

A thrilled Liam took to Twitter to thank the label for signing him, writing: "Amazing to have signed to @RepublicRecords I am celebrating as I tweet thank you so much for accepting me to your roster of amazing artists."

It's set to be a busy year for Liam with his solo music brewing and the arrival of his first child.

Popstar girlfriend Cheryl appeared to confirm her pregnancy in December when she wore a figure hugging dress to a Christmas charity carol service.